JOHANNESBURG, SA – June 1, 2025 – In a dramatic twist in the Olorato Mongale murder case, KwaMashu car washer Fezile Ngubane, who was initially suspected of involvement, has been officially cleared by police.
Ngubane, who handed himself over to SAPS at KwaMashu Police Station, revealed he was the victim of identity theft, orchestrated by the now-deceased alleged syndicate kingpin Philangenkosi Makhanya, who was killed in a police shootout in Amanzimtoti.
“I sold my ID to Philangenkosi Makhanya to make easy money. Only for him to almost get me in trouble,” Ngubane said, expressing deep regret and relief at being exonerated.
According to an eNCA report, Ngubane was one of three men initially sought for Mongale’s murder. The KwaMashu resident said he was terrified for his life when he found out he was wanted.
Used, framed and nearly jailed
In an interview with eNCA report, Ngubane admitted to struggling with drug addiction and said he has not left Durban in years. He disclosed that he sold his identity card to Makhanya for just R500 to buy drugs — and had no idea how it would be used.
“I have a problem with drugs, but I am not a violent person. I have never lifted my hand on any woman,” Ngubane told reporters.
His father and siblings helped find him and brought him to the police to clear his name. Ngubane’s father supported his innocence, saying, “As soon as police came to my home looking for my son, I knew violence is not his modus operandi.”
The nearly 40-year-old father of a 17-year-old daughter earns a living by washing cars. He confirmed he had known Makhanya since childhood, growing up in the same neighbourhood, and had sold his ID multiple times without knowing the criminal implications.
Framed by a syndicate
Police investigations later confirmed that Makhanya used Ngubane’s ID to register multiple SIM cards (RICA), which were linked to a string of kidnappings and scams. His ID was among several found in Makhanya’s possession, along with 27 smart cards.
Police say the SIM cards were used to lure female victims under false pretences.
The white VW Polo seen picking up Olorato Mongale for a supposed date was later recovered at Makhanya’s father’s panelbeating shop.
Both Makhanya’s mother and father have since been arrested. His mother is accused of tipping him off about the police’s presence at their home prior to the fatal shootout.
‘I haven’t been to Joburg since 2021’
Ngubane categorically denied any direct involvement in the brutal killing of Mongale, a Wits University student whose body was found dumped in Lombardy West.
“I haven’t been to Joburg since 2021 when I was in water vat school,” Ngubane told police. “So how would it be possible that I’ve killed a girl in such far places?”
His confirmed physical absence from Gauteng by the South African Police for over three years was a key factor in clearing his name. Investigators confirmed that his identity was fraudulently used and that he had no physical or digital link to Mongale’s murder.
Ngubane’s father has extended condolences to Mongale’s family, adding that he is grateful both families were able to talk and “clear the air.”
Makhanya dead, but one suspect still on the run
The main suspect, Philangenkosi Makhanya, was killed after opening fire on officers attempting to arrest him in Amanzimtoti on Friday. He has since been linked to at least 20 cases of robbery and kidnapping, all targeting women.
The murder of Olorato Mongale, along with similar cases of women’s bodies being found dumped across Sandton, has sparked fears of a possible serial killer or wider syndicate operating in the region.
SAPS intensifies manhunt for Bongani Mthimkhulu
The search for the remaining suspect, Bongani Mthimkhulu, continues as police investigations intensify.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has warned that Mthimkhulu is still on the run and considered extremely dangerous.
“Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact the Crime Stop Line at 08600 10111 or submit tips anonymously via the MySAPS App.”
For breaking news and verified updates on the Olorato Mongale case and related developments as and when they happen, visit:
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